Job Description: Course Leader for BSc (Hons) Construction Management with Foundation Year
Position Overview: The Course Leader for the BSc (Hons) Construction Management with Foundation Year at UK Management College (UKMC) will provide strategic leadership in the development and delivery of this course, which is designed to equip students with the necessary skills, knowledge, and industry experience to excel in construction management. The role involves overseeing the curriculum, managing academic quality, supporting students, and engaging with industry to maintain strong ties with professional bodies, such as the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE). The Course Leader is expected to foster a student-centered environment while promoting academic excellence and innovation.
Key Responsibilities:
Academic Leadership:
- Provide visionary academic leadership, ensuring the Construction Management course aligns with UKMC’s mission to deliver innovative and high-quality education.
- Oversee curriculum design and development, ensuring the course meets accreditation standards, industry needs, and integrates modern construction practices and technologies, including sustainability and digital innovations.
- Lead the course team, fostering collaboration and excellence in teaching, student support, and academic administration.
Curriculum Development & Quality Assurance:
- Collaborate with faculty to continually review and enhance the curriculum, ensuring it is current, innovative, and responsive to developments in the construction industry.
- Ensure the foundation year provides a strong base in key subjects such as mechanical and electrical engineering, construction law, and sustainability, enabling students to progress smoothly into the degree program.
- Ensure compliance with accreditation requirements, particularly those set by CABE, maintaining the highest academic standards and managing external reviews.
- Monitor student progress and feedback to continuously improve the learning experience and ensure academic quality.
Teaching & Student Support:
- Deliver high-quality teaching in key areas of construction management, employing a range of modern teaching techniques, including blended learning and digital tools such as VR and AR to simulate real-world construction scenarios.
- Supervise and support students through their academic journey, including project work, dissertations, and practical assignments.
- Act as a personal tutor and provide pastoral care, helping students navigate academic and personal challenges and offering guidance on career development.
Industry Engagement & Professional Relationships:
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with key industry stakeholders, such as construction companies, professional bodies (e.g., CABE), and alumni to ensure the course reflects the latest industry practices and offers students opportunities for placements and employment.
- Organize guest lectures, site visits, and workshops with industry experts to enhance the practical learning experience for students.
- Promote and facilitate industry accreditation for students, preparing them for professional recognition and membership in bodies like CABE upon graduation.
Research, Scholarship, & Innovation:
- Lead research initiatives that contribute to the advancement of knowledge in construction management, particularly in areas such as sustainability, project management, and emerging technologies.
- Support students in engaging with research and innovation, fostering a culture of critical thinking and problem-solving.
- Collaborate with external partners on research projects that contribute to both academic knowledge and practical industry advancements.
Leadership & Management:
- Lead a team of lecturers, supporting their professional development and ensuring that teaching, learning, and administrative duties are effectively coordinated.
- Collaborate with other departments and partner universities to ensure a multidisciplinary approach to teaching and learning.
- Manage the operational aspects of the course, including resource allocation, scheduling, and student recruitment efforts.
Student Experience & Success:
- Champion student success by implementing strategies to improve retention, engagement, and academic achievement.
- Ensure students have access to the necessary learning resources, including state-of-the-art labs, learning technologies, and career development services.
- Regularly evaluate student feedback to identify areas for improvement and enhance the overall learning experience.
Accreditation, Compliance & External Liaison:
- Ensure full compliance with accreditation bodies such as CABE, ensuring that the course meets all required academic and professional standards.
- Lead the preparation of accreditation reports, liaising with external examiners, and participating in reviews as necessary.
- Stay informed about changes in educational regulations and standards, ensuring that UKMC remains in compliance with both national and international requirements.
Community & Outreach:
- Engage in outreach activities to raise awareness of the Construction Management program, representing UKMC at events and within professional networks.
- Develop partnerships with local communities, businesses, and other educational institutions to promote student opportunities for real-world experience and employment.
- Support the college’s mission to foster a diverse, inclusive, and equitable learning environment for all students.
Strategic Development & Institutional Alignment:
- Contribute to the development and implementation of UKMC’s strategic plan, ensuring the course aligns with the college’s broader academic and institutional goals.
- Participate in governance activities at the college, providing regular updates and reports to senior leadership on the course’s performance, achievements, and areas for development.
- Collaborate with partner universities to ensure that the course benefits from a global perspective and that students can engage with international opportunities.
Qualifications & Experience:
- A Master’s degree or PhD in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- Substantial experience in teaching, course management, and academic leadership in higher education, preferably in construction management or a related field.
- Professional recognition or membership in a relevant industry body such as the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE) or the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
- Demonstrated experience in curriculum design, accreditation processes, and quality assurance.
- Proven ability to engage with industry partners and foster professional relationships.
- A strong track record of research or professional practice in the field of construction management.
Key Skills & Attributes:
- Visionary leadership with the ability to inspire and lead both students and academic staff.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with students, staff, and external partners.
- Commitment to innovation in teaching, learning, and research, with a focus on emerging technologies in the construction industry.
- A commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of academic life.
- The ability to balance academic and operational responsibilities, ensuring both the academic quality and practical administration of the course are maintained.
Professional Development & Expectations:
- Commitment to continuous professional development and active participation in research and scholarly activities.
- Willingness to undertake the Postgraduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (if not already held) and achieve Fellowship status under the Higher Education Academy’s Professional Standards Framework.
Special Requirements:
- Flexibility regarding location and working hours, including occasional travel to partner institutions and participation in outreach.
- Commitment to UKMC’s core values of Excellence, Integrity, People Focus, and Partnership Working.
Application Process: Interested candidates should submit their CV and cover letter detailing their experience, qualifications, and vision for the BSc (Hons) Construction Management with Foundation Year to careers@ukmc.ac.uk.
UKMC is an equal opportunity employer, and we welcome applications from diverse backgrounds.
